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Moundville Archaeological Park: Echoes of a Mississippian Metropolis

Discover the fascinating history and culture of the Mississippian people at Moundville Archaeological Park, a significant Native American heritage site.

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Explore the fascinating Moundville Archaeological Park, a 326-acre site that was once the political and ceremonial center of a powerful Mississippian culture. Discover 29 earthen platform mounds, a museum showcasing artifacts, and a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited this area from around 1000 AD to 1450 AD.

A brief summary to Moundville Archaeological Park

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the park, including the mounds, museum, and village replica.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and climbing the mounds.
  • Visit during the Moundville Native American Festival in October for a vibrant celebration of Native American culture.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the park's grounds or by the Black Warrior River.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Moundville Archaeological Park is located at 634 Mound State Parkway, Moundville, AL 35474. From Tuscaloosa, take US-82 W for approximately 18 miles. Take the exit toward Moundville/US-43 S and exit onto Mound State Parkway. Follow Mound State Parkway for about 3 miles to the park entrance. Free parking is available on-site.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    From Tuscaloosa, a taxi or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) to Moundville Archaeological Park will take approximately 20 minutes, covering a distance of about 17 miles. Expect to pay between $40-$50 for the ride. Note: There is no public transportation available between Tuscaloosa and Moundville.

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Discover more about Moundville Archaeological Park

Moundville Archaeological Park, located on the Black Warrior River near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, offers a captivating journey into the past. This 326-acre park was once a thriving center of the Mississippian culture, serving as a political, social, and religious hub from approximately 1000 AD to 1450 AD. At its peak, Moundville was the largest city in America, north of Mexico. The park features 29 earthen platform mounds arranged around a vast central plaza. These mounds served as elevated platforms for civic and ceremonial structures and the homes of nobles. Visitors can climb the steps to the 60-foot tall Mound B, the tallest in the collection, for panoramic views of the central plaza. The Jones Archaeological Museum within the park displays artifacts unearthed at the site, providing insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and artistic achievements of the Mississippian people. Life-size figures dressed in ceremonial clothing and jewelry offer a glimpse into their traditions. The park also includes a replica of a village, showcasing tableaus of crafting, food storage and preparation, and burial arrangements. Moundville offers a half-mile nature trail through Alabama woodland, providing scenic views of the mounds and the Black Warrior River. The park also has a campground and picnic areas. The park hosts events throughout the year, including the Moundville Native American Festival in October, celebrating the culture and heritage of Southeastern Indians.

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